Devo - Streams in the Desert

My Devotional Today from Streams in the Desert

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering…But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ. (1 Peter 4:12-13)

Many hours of waiting were necessary to enrich David’s harp with song. And hours of waiting in the wilderness will provide us with psalms of “thanksgiving and the sound of singing” (Isaiah 51:3). The hearts of the discouraged here below will be lifted, and joy will be brought to our Father’s heavenly home.

What was the preparation for Jesse’s son, David, to compose songs unlike any others ever heard before on earth? It was the sinful persecution he endured at the hands of the wicked that brought forth his cries for God’s help. Then David’s faint hope in God’s goodness blossomed into full songs of rejoicing, declaring the Lord’s mighty deliverances and multiplied mercies. Every sorrow was yet another note from his harp, and every deliverance another theme of praise.

One stinging sorrow spared would have been one blessing missed and unclaimed. One difficulty or danger escaped – how great would have been our loss! The thrilling psalms where God’s people today find expression for their grief or praise might never have been known.

Waiting on God and abiding in His will is to know Him in “the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings” (Philippians 3:10) and “to be conformed to the likeness of his Son” (Romans 8:29). Therefore if God’s desire is to enlarge your capacity for spiritual understanding, do not be frightened by the greater realm of suffering that awaits you. The Lord’s capacity for sympathy is greater still, for the breath of the Holy Spirit into His new creation never makes a heart hard and insensitive, but affectionate, tender, and true. Anna Shipton

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. 1 Timothy 1:12

God spoke to my heart again. Confirming the message that He has been putting on my heart.

Spirit of Truth continue to speak, open our understanding and give us ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to us. May we not fear what's up ahead. Give us the desire to be doers of Your Word and not simply hearers. In Jesus Name.